About Us

New Wave sushi and contemporary Japanese-based, “Pacific Rim” specialties served in a lively setting are what make Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar one of Hawai’i’s most critically acclaimed and wildly popular restaurants. Wine Spectator described the restaurant’s “endless innovation with a strong Japanese accent.” Bon Appetit named Sansei one of its “Favorite Asian Restaurants” and one of “America’s Best Sushi Bars.”

Sansei’s sushi chefs are known for their highly imaginative creations, like their signature Panko Crusted Ahi Roll and the famous Kapalua Butterfly Roll, a colorful delight of salmon, crab, shiromi, and fresh vegetables. The multi-award winning Asian Shrimp Cake with Ginger Lime Butter and Cilantro Pesto is a delicate shrimp cake encased in crispy Chinese noodles.

The first Sansei opened in March 1996 at the Kapalua Resort, Maui, with additional locations opening in Honolulu (2000), Kīhei, Maui (2000) and Waikoloa, Hawai’i Island (2008). The Japanese word “sansei” refers to “third generation” and founder D.K. Kodama felt it was a fitting name for a restaurant inspired by Japanese tradition also serving contemporary interpretations of sushi and Asian cuisine. It is also a reference to D.K. Kodama’s background as a third generation Japanese American.

Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar is part of the DK Restaurants group.